Influence of processing parameters and particle size on the properties of hot work and high speed tool steels by Spark Plasma Sintering

Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) is a newly developed rapid technique for powder sintering. In this study, consolidation by SPS of high speed steel (AISI M2) and hot work tool steel (AISI H13) commercial powders is investigated. The influence of sintering temperature (900 to 1150 °C) and time (0 to 30 min) as well as the particle size and distribution is evaluated with respect to final density, hardness and fracture toughness. Properties have been compared with those of samples produced by Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP).